Exploring natural bioenhancers to enhancing bioavailability: An Overview

Abstract

Bioenhancers are such agents, which by themselves are not therapeutic entities but when combined with an active drug lead to the potentiation of the pharmacologic effect of the drug. Such formulations have been found to increase the bioavailability / bioefficacy of a number of drugs even when reduced doses of drugs are present in such formulations. Evidence have been obtained for such classes of drugs which are (a) poorly bioavailable and/or efficacious, (b) require prolonged therapy, and (c) are highly toxic and expensive. These are phytomolecules development of which is based on ancient knowledge of Ayurveda. They augment the bioavailability or biological activity of drugs when administered at low doses. They reduce the dose; shorten the treatment period thus reducing drug-resistance problems. The treatment is made cost effective, minimizing drug toxicity and adverse reactions. When used in combination with number of drug classes such as antibiotics, antituberculosis, antiviral, antifungal and anticancerous drugs they are quite effective. Oral absorption of vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, amino acids and other nutrients are improved by them. They act through several mechanisms which may affect mainly absorption process, drug metabolism or action on drug-target.